China’s Former Top Legislator Wu Bangguo Passes Away at 84
Beijing—Wu Bangguo, former chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee and a significant figure in China’s political landscape, passed away at the age of 84 in Beijing at 4:36 a.m. on Tuesday, according to an official statement.
An obituary jointly issued by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the NPC Standing Committee, the State Council, and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference praised Wu as an excellent Party member, a loyal communist soldier, and an outstanding revolutionary, statesman, and leader.
A Lifelong Commitment to Party and Country
Born in July 1941 in Feidong, Anhui Province, Wu Bangguo studied at Tsinghua University from 1960 to 1967 and joined the CPC in April 1964. Beginning his career in Shanghai’s electronics industry, he held various management positions and demonstrated steadfast commitment to Party principles, especially during the tumultuous Cultural Revolution.
From 1983 to 1991, Wu served in key roles within the CPC Shanghai Municipal Committee, eventually becoming deputy secretary. He played a pivotal role in promoting Deng Xiaoping’s reform and opening-up policies and was instrumental in the development and opening of Shanghai’s Pudong district, ushering in a new era of both domestic and international engagement for the city.
National Leadership and Legislative Contributions
In 1994, Wu was appointed to high-ranking positions within the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. As vice premier from 1995, he focused on advancing the socialist market economy, spearheading reforms of state-owned enterprises, and overseeing significant infrastructure projects like the Three Gorges Dam. His efforts substantially enhanced China’s economic growth momentum.
Elected as chairman of the NPC Standing Committee in 2003, Wu held the position for two terms until 2013. During his tenure, he enriched the theories and practices of the people’s congress system, contributing significantly to the development of socialist democracy and the improvement of the socialist legal system. He was recognized as an important leader in advancing socialist democracy and the rule of law with Chinese characteristics.
Legacy and Final Years
After retiring from his leadership role in 2013, Wu continued to support the Party and the state’s causes, firmly upholding the leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core. He remained committed to the principles he championed throughout his career.
Wu Bangguo’s passing is regarded as a significant loss to the Party and the nation. The obituary concluded with the words: “Eternal glory to Comrade Wu Bangguo!”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
